President Hichilema Champions Dialogue Over Street Protests in Constitution Talks

President Hakainde Hichilema has stressed the critical importance of dialogue in helping communities navigate their differences, particularly during the ongoing constitutional amendment discussions.

Speaking during a meeting with Oasis Forum representatives at State House today, the President acknowledged that societies are inherently complex, comprising individuals with diverse perspectives that inevitably lead to disagreements.

Drawing from personal experience, President Hichilema recounted how dialogue has proven instrumental in steering Zambia away from potential turmoil during periods of heightened national tension.

He referenced the aftermath of the 2016 General Election, when his party believed it had been unfairly denied victory. Rather than mobilizing supporters for street demonstrations, he opted to challenge the results through legal channels.

The President made clear his opposition to street-based dispute resolution, particularly when avenues for constructive dialogue remain available. He cautioned that such approaches risk plunging the nation into the kind of disorder witnessed in the lead-up to the 2021 General Election.

Oasis Forum Chairperson Beauty Katebe commended the President's decision to engage with the organization, describing it as a demonstration of strong leadership.

Ms. Katebe presented the Forum's position, which calls for the complete withdrawal of Bill 7 from the National Assembly. The organization is seeking a new, comprehensive and properly protected constitutional amendment process, rather than one that appears hurried.